Garnet And Black Attack - South Carolina Gamecocks vs. UCF Knights: Countdown to Kickoff#SpursUphttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50351/gaba-fav.png2015-09-26T11:30:02-04:00http://www.garnetandblackattack.com/rss/stream/91592742015-09-26T11:30:02-04:002015-09-26T11:30:02-04:00Gamecocks vs. UCF: Live Game Thread
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<figcaption>Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>It's a high noon kickoff in the Capital City.</p> <p>South Carolina. UCF. Let's game thread. You guys know the drill. Fire away. Have fun. And don't kill each other.</p>
https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/2015/9/26/9401279/south-carolina-gamecocks-vs-ucf-knights-live-game-threadSydney Hunte2015-09-26T06:00:01-04:002015-09-26T06:00:01-04:00Gamecocks vs. UCF: Start time, how to watch
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<figcaption>Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Someone's got to win, right?</p> <p id="paragraph2">While the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/">South Carolina Gamecocks</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blackandgoldbanneret.com/">UCF Knights</a> weren't really expected to be heavyweights going into their Week Four showdown, things have been bad on either side. Both teams have struggled, although the Knights have struggled more so than the Gamecocks. They have scored just 36 points in their first three games - that includes a 16-15 loss to FCS Furman last week. (To put it in perspective, the Paladins were just 3-9 last year and entered the contest against UCF 1-1, despite giving FCS #5 Coastal Carolina a scare at home in week one.) The Gamecocks are still smarting from a 52-20 rout at Georgia that saw them give up the second-most amount of points in the Steve Spurrier era.</p>
<p>We'll get a chance to see what true freshman Lorenzo Nunez can do under center as he gets his first-ever start.</p>
<p>Here's the viewing information for today's game (the first noon start for the Gamecocks this season) as well as how to watch the game online and on your mobile device. As always, check with your cable or satellite operator for availability to ensure that you'll be able to get it.</p>
<h3>South Carolina Gamecocks vs. UCF Knights<br>Saturday, September 26, 2015 | 12:00 p.m. ET<br>Williams-Brice Stadium, Columbia, SC</h3>
<p id="paragraph3"><b>Television:</b> ESPNU</p>
<p id="paragraph4"><b>Internet</b>: <a target="_blank" href="http://watchespn.com/" data-ref-index="8">WatchESPN.com</a></p>
<p id="paragraph5"><b>Mobile</b>: Via the Watch ESPN app.</p>
<p id="paragraph6"><b>TV Commentators</b>: Clay Matvick (pxp); John Congemi (commentator)</p>
<p id="paragraph7"><b>Odds (courtesy </b><a target="_blank" href="https://sports.bovada.lv/football/college/game-lines-market-group" data-ref-index="9">Bovada</a><b>)</b>: Gamecocks were favored by 14.5 Friday night. Over/under was 45.</p>
https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/south-carolina-gamecocks-football/2015/9/26/9400179/south-carolina-gamecocks-vs-ucf-knights-start-time-tv-coverage-live-stream-oddsSydney Hunte2015-09-25T19:07:06-04:002015-09-25T19:07:06-04:00Week 4 injury report for UCF game
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<figcaption>Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Brandon Wilds is out, and more.</p> <p>The <a href="https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Gamecocks</a> have a whole lot of guys out, but few question marks this week as they host the University of Central Florida. Freshman trio Lorenzo Nunez (QB), Zack Bailey (C) and D.J. Neal (WR) are set to make their first career starts this Saturday in place of injured starters. Plus, we have updates on Deebo Samuel and Chris Lammons. So, without further delay, Mr. Auguste's army of tiny heads will provide you with the latest Gamecock injury news (for the backstory on that, <a href="http://www.garnetandblackattack.com/2013/10/18/4851236/south-carolina-bruce-ellington-ronald-patrick-injury" target="_blank">click here</a>.)</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
</tbody>
<caption><b>Key</b></caption>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>One Auguste</td>
<td>Expected to play, might not start</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Two Augustes</td>
<td>Game-time decision</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Three Augustes</td>
<td>Questionable</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Four Augustes</td>
<td>Doubtful</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Five Augustes</td>
<td>Out</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>
<span>Deebo Samuel</span>, WR</h3>
<p>Samuel is out with a hamstring injury he suffered in practice this week. He also injured a hamstring against North Carolina. Hamstrings are the worst.</p>
<h3></h3>
<p><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"></p>
<h3>
<span>Chris Lammons</span>, CB</h3>
<p>Still out with a rib and knee injury. This will be his second missed game, as he did not travel to Athens last week.</p>
<p><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"></p>
<p> </p>
<h3>
<span>Brandon Wilds</span>, RB</h3>
<p>Wilds was unable to return from an injury he suffered against Georgia. He's out this week with a cracked rib. <span>Shon Carson</span> is expected to have a busier day against UCF.</p>
<h3></h3>
<p><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"></p>
<p> </p>
<h3>
<span>Alan Knott</span>, C</h3>
<p>Knott, a RS sophomore, was also injured during the Georgia game. He suffered an ankle sprain and is expected to miss multiple games.</p>
<h3></h3>
<p><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"><img src="http://cdn1.sbnation.com/assets/3368439/auguste_small.png"></p>
https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/south-carolina-gamecocks-football/2015/9/25/9399211/south-carolina-gamecocks-ucf-knights-injury-report-brandon-wilds-deebo-samuel-alan-knottKevin Searcy2015-09-25T11:15:56-04:002015-09-25T11:15:56-04:00USC vs UCF: 3 keys and a prediction
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<figcaption>Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Here's how the Gamecocks walk away with a W</p> <p id="paragraph2"><b>Three Keys to Victory:</b></p>
<p id="paragraph3"><b>1. Lorenzo Nunez. </b>We got a glimpse of how dynamic the true freshman can be in garbage time of last week's game. He's a speedy runner who just might be able to spark the ground game and open up the offense for a few effective play-action calls. He'll have plenty of opportunities this week. I'm excited to see what kinds of plays they draw up for him against the UCF as Spurrier attempt's to spread the ball around on offense.</p>
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<p id="paragraph6"><b>2. LOL Defense. </b>The defense has been very very bad for much of the season, but head-scratchingly competent in small bursts. They aren't All-Americans (Except Skai, maybe), but they should be better than they've played 80% of the time. Saturday's game is a downright gift for this defense. They won't likely face a worse opponent all year, and it's a golden opportunity to work out their issues and improve at game speed. If a strong performance can get this team back on track, this is their best chance.</p>
<p id="paragraph9"><b>3. Steady as she goes. </b>Just like us fans, the football team and staff are hopefully taking a step back to assess the program's current situation and adjusting expectations accordingly. The season's not lost, even if a trip to Atlanta or a decent bowl in 2015 might be. Hell, a trip to Shreveport might be a stretch at this point. This was meant to be reassuring and wow I'm so sorry. South Carolina Football 2015: 'We might not have to travel to Shreveport, y'all! <strike>(because we didn't win six games)'</strike></p>
<p>This should be a great opportunity to get back to basics, execute, and cobble together four quarters of effective football on both sides of the ball. We should expect things to go according to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/">Gamecocks</a>' plan Saturday. Things probably won't, because football, but the team will still look a whole lot better than they did last weekend.</p>
<p id="paragraph10"><b>Prediction:</b></p>
<p id="paragraph12">UCF--coming off a loss to Furman, and bitten by the injury bug as badly as just about anyone--is on track to be an FBS basement dweller in 2015. After a lackluster start to the season, this match up is just what the Gamecocks need to build some momentum and get a decisive victory.</p>
<p>South Carolina 38 - UCF 19</p>
https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/south-carolina-gamecocks-football/2015/9/25/9396949/south-carolina-gamecocks-ucf-knights-preview-prediction-steve-spurrier-lorenzo-nunezKevin Searcy2015-09-25T08:25:06-04:002015-09-25T08:25:06-04:00Our Digital Season: Week 4—USC v. UCF
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<p>It's the DigiCocks versus the DigiKnights</p> <p>Howdy fans! Welcome to week four of Our Digital Season. Last week, <a href="http://www.garnetandblackattack.com/2015/9/16/9335265/our-digital-season-week-3-south-carolina-at-georgia" target="_blank">the DigiCocks edged the DigiDawgs in overtime</a>. As you may or may not recall, this didn't happen IRL. Folks, this isn't scientific and sometimes things to go as the game predicts. Other times, the game predicts a double overtime victory against Missouri and, what do you know, that happens!</p>
<p>Regardless, we soldier ahead. Our virtual squad welcome the UCF Knights into town. I did my best to deactivate the 900 UCF players who won't appear in Saturday's contest, but a few may have slipped through the cracks since UCF does a really crappy job of publicizing depth charts. For us: no Knott, Wilds, or Lammons. And your starting quarterback is DigiNuNu.</p>
<p>The DigiKnights win the toss and will receive.</p>
<h3>1st Quarter, or WATCH ME PUNT</h3>
<p>After forcing a quick 3rd and long, the DigiCocks fail to defend a screen and UCF picks up a first down. Then CJ Jones runs off-tackle for 11. A 10 yard completion to Dinovo follows. Jump to 3rd and 5 on the SC 36. Pass is complete to Payton underneath, and he turns upfield for 11. Patti gains 11 more on a scramble. Then it's to Smith for 12, and like that it's 1st and goal at the 2 yard line. Jump to 3rd down—<b>Patti drops back, then scampers ahead and in for the touchdown. Not good! 7-0, Knights.</b></p>
<p>After a touchback, it's Nuñez in the shotgun. Keeps it and runs for 14. Okay! Two plays later, he finds Terry Googer over the middle, and it's a 32 yard gain. Consecutive DigiNuNu scrambles gain 4 and 8, and it's 1st and 10 on the UCF 17. This time, he's unable to turn a scramble into anything—sacked for a loss of 3. A short pass to Adams brings up 3rd and long. UCF brings the house, and Nuñez is sacked again. <b>Fry comes on, and it's up and good. 7-3, Knights.</b></p>
<p>Kick returned to the 23. Handoff on 1st down loses a yard. Patti scrambles for 5, and it's 3rd and 6. Screen pass is caught, but he's stopped just short of the line to gain. Punt.</p>
<p>Pharoh returns it to the 34. Screen pass to Pharoh loses 3. Carson gains 4 on the delay. And on 3rd down, Nuñez takes yet another sack. 4th and long, punt, returned to the 41.</p>
<p>But, UCF goes 3 and out and will punt it right back.</p>
<p>Pharoh gets it to the 25 and the DigiCocks will take over. Pass incomplete on 1st. Carson gains 3, and the quarter will end.</p>
<h3>2nd Quarter, or MOUNTING A COCK OFFENSIVE (NSFW)</h3>
<p>It's 3rd and 7. Nuñez drops back, and checks down to Carson, who is tackled immediately. Between the teams, it's the fourth consecutive punt.</p>
<p>UCF takes over at the SC 42. On 1st down, SC brings a seven man blitz, but Patti gets it off and it's a 32 yard gain. Jump to 3rd and 4. Patti's pass is incomplete, and<b> UCF will bring on the field goal unit. Good, and it's 10-3, DigiKnights.</b></p>
<p>Touchback. Carolina has gained -3 yards combined on its past two drives. Make that -8, as Nuñez throws a screen pass backwards that Heard has to fall on. He then scrambles for 6, making it 3rd and 9. the Cocks are 0/3 on 3rd downs. Make that 1/4, as Nuñez hits Cooper on the slant, and he muscles across the line to gain. Jump to 3rd and 5 at the SC 42. <b>Nuñez drops back, and airs one out—it's caught by Googer at the 15, and he sheds a tackler on his way to the endzone! Tied at 10.</b></p>
<p>Touchback. UCF has punted thrice in a row. Completion for 8 on 1st. After a short gain, it's 3rd and inches. Patti will pass—and it's tipped by Qua Lewis! It falls incomplete, and UCF will punt yet again. Pharoh returns it to the 34.</p>
<p>The DigiCocks have all the momentum, and it continues as Nuñez finds Carson for 13. He then keeps it for 17. Jump to 2nd and 10, and Nuñez tries to escape the pocket but will suffer his fourth sack of the day.</p>
<p>And, hoo boy, he's down. DigiOrth comes in.</p>
<p>3rd and 14. And how about that, Orth finds Googer for just enough. We are informed that Nuñez is simply suffering from back spasms and will return shortly. Carson gains 6 on 1st down. UCF bites on the halfback delay, and Williams scampers for 14. <b>And on the next play, Orth finds a slanting Pharoh Cooper for the easy score. 17-10, Cocks. </b></p>
<p>Kick is returned to the 27. Jones runs for 8 on 1st and 5 on 2nd. A screen pass loses yards, put then Patti ducks under a blitz and scampers for 17. 1st and 10 on the SC 45. Patti follows it with another 12 yard scramble. The clock ticks under 1:30. A no gain and a Stallworth sack make it 3rd and 12 (UCF has gone 0/4 on 3rd down since starting 3/3.) It's a screen, but well read and it gains nothing. UCF will call out the field goal unit. They'll let the clock tick way down—SC could stop it and conserve time for a late drive, but they're not interested. The 52 yard field goal is up—and no good!</p>
<p>South Carolina takes over at its own 35 with 10 seconds remaining. Nuñez is back in, by the way. He actually will pass, but it's incomplete. And the half will end with Nuñez taking his 5th sack.</p>
<h3>HALFTIME ANALYSIS</h3>
<p>A second quarter surge means a halftime lead for the DigiCocks. The defense has appeared stifling at times, completely hapless at others, but it has held UCF to 3 points since its opening drive. Meanwhile, DigiLoNuNu has played well enough but owes at least a few of the 5 sacks he's taken to his happy feet. Will he settle down for the second half and lead the DigiCocks to victory? Let's find out!</p>
<h3>3rd Quarter, or SOMETIMES I THINK YOU <i>WANT </i>TO PUNT</h3>
<p>South Carolina gets the ball out of the half. Carson returns it, ill-advisably, to the 21. Nuñez sits in the pocket, attempts to scramble, and is sacked <i>again</i>. Carson gains 6 on 2nd. It's a screen pass on 3rd and, holy smokes, it works to perfection. Carson gains 16. Jump to 3rd and 8. Another screen pass gains 7.5...it's 4th and inches on the UCF 48. Will they go for it? No. (BOOOOOOOOOO) Punt by Kelly bounces into the endzone. 28 yard net. Way to go guys.</p>
<p>UCF ball, and we'll jump to 3rd and 1. I-formation, and the give to Jones will gain 3 and move the chains. Two plays later, Patti drops back, has about 8 seconds in the pocket as the SC DigiD-line smushes lifelessly into the UCF O-line; Patti then lofts one to the flat, where Larenz Bryant coolly jumps in front of the pass, and then drops it. 3rd and 10. Patti finds Dinovo for just 8. Punt. UCF has scored just 3 points since its first drive. Pharoh returns it to the 26.</p>
<p>Carson loses a yard on 1st, and gains 4 on 2nd. Shotgun, 5 wide. Nuñez hits Cooper shy of the line to gain, and he's dragged down. Punt, returned to the UCF 32.</p>
<p>Patti gains 7 on the keeper, and Johnson gains 5 more for the 1st. Backup RB McGowan gains 5, Jones gains 3. 3rd and a long 1. McGowan for 7 and UCF continues to pound the rock to a positive result. Jones gains 5 more on another run. <b>Patti keeps it on a zone read—finds a seam, and he's home free. 36 yard touchdown run for Patti, and we are knotted up at 17.</b></p>
<p>Touchback. Nuñez throws it away on 1st, then scrambles for 11 on 2nd. 1st down. A dangerous pass falls incomplete. Shotgun on 2nd—Nuñez is, you guessed it, sacked, and fumbles. Recovered by SC, but it's a loss of 8. 3rd and 16 and they—hand it off? Loss of 1. Fans not happy. Gamecocks will punt.</p>
<p>The DigiKnights take over at their own 43, looking to reclaim the lead. Jump to 3rd and 7. SC brings the house, but gets zero penetration, natch, and Patti completes the pass for just enough. Ball on the SC 45. Patti gains 4 on the scramble, and we go to the 4th.</p>
<h3>4th Quarter, or SOMEBODY'S GOTTA WIN I GUESS</h3>
<p>Jones gets the handoff, gains a big chunk but is injured. Patti is hit as he throws, and it's incomplete. On 2nd down, Patti drops back, is pressured, and throws one across his body—<b><i>and it's Al Harris Jr. stepping in front of the pass! He will return it 70 yard for the score! 24-17, Cocks.</i></b></p>
<p>(It's the second consecutive ODS contest in which AHJ has had an interception. After how he played IRL last week, this may not bode well.)</p>
<p>UCF looks to respond, and Thompson gains a quick 10 to move the chains. Patti scrambles and slides for 6. He then finds Payton on the sideline for 9 and a 1st down. Ball just across midfield. Jump to 3rd and 5. It's a delayed give, and Taylor Stallworth is there to wrap up McGowan for the loss. On 4th and 7 and the SC 47, the Knights will go for it.<i><b> Patti hits Oldham, but it's good for just 2—turnover on downs!</b></i></p>
<p>Nuñez on the zone read keeper on 1st, and he finds room! Gain of 26, and it's 1st and 10 at the UCF 30. Give to Carson gains just 1, but the pass to Adams is good for 12. Jump to 3rd and 4. Screen pass to Williams—he's hit shy of the line, but falls across! It's 1st and goal at the 6. Jump to 3rd and goal. Nuñez will pass—he hits Googer in the chest in the back of the end zone, but the freshman drops it. <b>Freisman will come on for the chipshot—good. It's 27-17.</b></p>
<p>UCF sets themselves up nicely with a 44 yard kick return, and they'll work with a short field. Patti scrambles for 15 on 1st down. UCF is in hurry-up mode with 3 minutes remaining. Jump to 3rd and 7, which features a should-have-been sack and a should-have-been pick. But at least it's incomplete. UCF will go for it on 4th and 7 at the SC 39. <b><i>Patti will scramble—he's got open field, but Walton lays him out just shy of the line! Another turnover on downs.</i></b></p>
<p>SC needs two first downs to salt it. Jump to 3rd and 6—UCF has burned two timeouts. Nuñez will pass—and he hits Kyle Markway for the 1st! That should just about do it, although UCF does call its final timeout to stop the clock. It's 1st and 10 at the CUF 45 with just over 2 minutes remaining. Carson picks a good time for a worthwhile rush, gaining 11, and that will do it. Carolina runs out the clock and seals the victory.</p>
<h3>Final Score: 27-17, Gamecocks.</h3>
<table style="text-align: center;" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>SC</b></td>
<td><b>STAT</b></td>
<td><b>UCF</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>310</td>
<td>Total Yards</td>
<td>340</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>208</td>
<td>Pass Yards</td>
<td>139</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>102</td>
<td>Rush Yards</td>
<td>201</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>0</td>
<td>Turnovers</td>
<td>1 INT</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6/13</td>
<td>3DC</td>
<td>6/14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>T. Googer: 4 REC, 110 YDS, 1 TD</td>
<td>OPOTG</td>
<td>N. Patti: 12/31, 139 YDS, 1 INT, 15 ATT, 121 YDS, 2 TD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>A. Harris Jr.: 4 TACK, 1 TFL, 1 INT, 77 RET YDS, TD</td>
<td>DPOTG</td>
<td>J. Henry: 12 TACK, 2 TFL, 1 SACK<br><br>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p>UCF stormed out of the gates with a quick touchdown, but only managed 10 points the rest of the way. They did actually outgain the Gamecocks (thank you net yardage) but couldn't finish drives—on top of 4 punts, the Knights threw a pick six, missed a field goal, and failed to convert twice on 4th down. South Carolina was less than impressive on offense, and DigiNuNu got brutalized in the backfield to the tune of 7 sacks, but he had his moments (as did Perry Orth—2/2, 21 yards and a TD).</p>
<p>Honestly, this one feels kind of believable. An often stressful, 10 point win over a practically gutted unit. Hey, a win's a win, but 20 points on offense against an injury-plagued UCF won't translate to wins in the DigiSEC.</p>
<p>Oh, the DigiCocks are 4-0. How about that! Have a great week.</p>
https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/2015/9/25/9396897/our-digital-season-week-4-south-carolina-v-central-floridaJorge De Los Gallos2015-09-24T18:33:03-04:002015-09-24T18:33:03-04:00USC vs. UCF: Q&A with Underdog Dynasty
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<figcaption>Rob Foldy-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Just how far have the UCF Knights fallen since the departure of Blake Bortles? This week's Q&A remembers the Knights of old and worries for the Knights of today. </p> <p>Many thanks to Chas over at Underdog Dynasty for making this week's Q&A a reality. While it might not be pretty on the football field Saturday when the <a href="https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Gamecocks</a> and Knights meet at Williams-Brice, it sure should be interesting. Here's a closer look at the 2015 <a href="https://www.blackandgoldbanneret.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">UCF Knights</a>:</p>
<p><b>1. I have to start with the latest news coming out of UCF's campus. What are your thoughts on the dismissal of all-conference running back <span>William Stanback</span>? What kind of position does this put the Knights offense in come Saturday?</b></p>
<p>For the long answer, take a look at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.underdogdynasty.com/2015/9/23/9383571/the-rise-sort-of-and-fall-of-ucf-running-back-will-stanback#comments">my post on the rise (sort of) and fall of Will Stanback</a>.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.underdogdynasty.com/2015/9/23/9383571/the-rise-sort-of-and-fall-of-ucf-running-back-will-stanback#comments"></a></p>
<p>The short answer is that it's a pity because he showed so much promise back in 2013. But I don't want to overstate the impact on the game - Stanback plummeted down the depth chart and has been terrible this year when he did carry the ball. Big asterisk here: the Knights only have two scholarship running backs now, so UCF is in a dire position depth wise.</p>
<p><b>2. Much like the Gamecocks, it looks like the Knights have been hit with some inexperience, coupled with injuries at the quarterback position to start the season. Who looks to be the likely starter at QB in Columbia?</b></p>
<p>My flip answer is that it doesn't matter, both are terrible right now. I think Bo Schneider will start (true freshman, 14/30 for 109 yards, 0 TDs, 2 INTs on the season). Maybe you'll see some <span>Tyler Harris</span> too (redshirt freshman, 14/32 for 131 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs). Expect to see some wildcat with Boise State transfer and former back-up UCF QB Nick Patti. Patti was converted to wide receiver (unwisely, I think, in light of where injuries have put us).</p>
<p><b>3. Something's gotta give when the Gamecocks defense (ranked 108 of 127 in total defense) meets the Knights offense (last in FBS in total offense) on the field. What has been the biggest struggle for UCF's offense this season? And is there much hope for improving given Tuesday's news?</b></p>
<p>Dang. When you're dead last it's hard to identify just one struggle on offense, eh? Right now I'll hang it on the QB play until Holman returns. But I could pick nearly anything here.</p>
<p>There is no serious hope to meaningfully improve tomorrow. But I don't suggest that hinges on the Stanback news.</p>
<p><b>3.The State newspaper in Columbia, SC cited sophomore receiver <span>Chris Johnson</span> as a playmaking threat for the Knights offense. Is he the go to guy at this point?</b></p>
<p>Nah. The guy has six catches on the year so far averaging 8.8 yards per reception.</p>
<p>The most promising playmaker this year was Sophomore WR Akins who is, you guessed it, injured and out for the year. The second most promising playmaker is redshirt freshman Tre'Quan Smith.</p>
<p><b>4. Who is the Knights playmaker on defense that the Gamecocks need to spot come Saturday?</b></p>
<p>Sophomore linebacker <span>Chequan Burkett</span>, who has been very physical. He's been an impact player, with a forced fumble against FIU and a sack for a safety against Furman.</p>
<p><b>6. What type of team do you expect to take the field for UCF after a disappointing loss to Furman last week?</b></p>
<p>It will still be a disaster.</p>
<p><b>7. Rumors have been tossed around that head coach George O'Leary may be more interested in gaining the AD spot full-time at UCF than coaching the football team. Do you see his time as football coach coming to end after this season to assume that position?</b></p>
<p>UCF and O'Leary have tremendous mutual loyalty. It's easy to see him wanting to slide up to the AD gig full time and install Brent Key, the successor he has groomed, as the new head coach.</p>
<p>But: given where this season is going, we'll see if any of that gets derailed.</p>
<p><b>8. Just two years ago these two teams met in Orlando, each riding a wave of success as the teams finished a combined 23-3. And the Knights held their own last year to a 9-4 record. How has the team seemingly fallen this far? Or, have they just faced rough circumstances and haven't had the ball bounce their way so far this year?</b></p>
<p>2013 was great: first ever AAC Champions and a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/fiesta-bowl" class="sbn-auto-link">Fiesta Bowl</a> win over Baylor. We were happy that the 2014 team reprised the conference championship (though sharing it in a three way tie), despite <span>Blake Bortles</span> and <span>Storm Johnson</span> leaving early for the NFL. Following last year, WR Breshad Perriman (now on the Ravens) left early as did CB Jacoby Glenn.</p>
<p>This is just not a very good team. Even after a terrible opening loss to FIU, the Knights could have scrapped something together and - I think - gotten bowl eligible. But not with the injury luck that occurred afterwards. Now it feels like there's no "bottom" to how low this Knights squad could sink.</p>
https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/south-carolina-gamecocks-football/2015/9/24/9395013/south-carolina-gamecocks-vs-ucf-knights-q-a-with-underdog-dynastyJames Shahid2015-09-22T19:14:47-04:002015-09-22T19:14:47-04:00Steve Spurrier Press Conference
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<p>Steve Spurrier hit the media boys with some breaking news at this afternoon's press conference. </p> <p>I don't know if head coach Steve Spurrier was just trying to ignite some excitement into an otherwise down beat media session, or if he just had a change of heart, but a short time after releasing a depth chart for this Saturday's game against UCF that included <span>Perry Orth</span> as the Gamecocks starting quarterback, he announced true freshman Lorenzo Nunez would take the field first instead.</p>
<p>And although it's a move almost no one expected to take place just three games into the 2015 season, it's one he had to do. This team is reeling at the moment, and in need of a spark to propel it back into winning form. It's Spurrier's hope that Nunez can provide just that.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"He gives us a spark running the ball. We need to spread out and run the ball. That's where we are," Spurrier said about Nunez.</p>
— GamecockCentral.com (@GamecockCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/GamecockCentral/status/646354489046355968">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p>In all likelihood, Nunez won't be the only quarterback to take the field for the Gamecocks this Saturday, but don't count on the true freshman to shy away from an opportunity to solidify himself as the starter for the remainder of the year. As raw as he may be, he provides the play making mobility absent in Orth and Scarnecchia for a team that can't seem to get its offense going.</p>
<p>Here's some other highlights from the rest of today's session media session:</p>
<p>Spurrier mentioned former SEC Commissioners Ray Kromer and Mike Slive and current commissioner Greg Snakey will be in attendance this weekend to celebrate 25 years of SEC play for the Gamecocks.</p>
<p>Coaches will also honor prostate cancer awareness this weekend.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Steve Spurrier: Coaches honoring prostate cancer awareness this week, and will celebrate USC's 25th anniversary of joining the SEC.</p>
— David Cloninger (@DCTheState) <a href="https://twitter.com/DCTheState/status/646353222634971137">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p>On the current state of the Gamecocks defense:</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spurrier says there will be maybe 3 or 4 new starters on defense.</p>
— GamecockCentral.com (@GamecockCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/GamecockCentral/status/646353729046843392">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Steve Spurrier: "I don’t know that we can assume that we can stop anybody consistently because we haven’t yet." UCF last in NCAA in offense</p>
— <span>Josh Kendall</span> (@JoshatTheState) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshatTheState/status/646355726819028992">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p>On the negative energy that may be surrounding this team after a 1-2 start:</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spurrier on fans' reax: "We're not where we thought we'd be. We'll find out where we're going to be after 4 games ... and go from there."</p>
— David Cloninger (@DCTheState) <a href="https://twitter.com/DCTheState/status/646356865224470528">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Steve Spurrier: "If they want to really play well, I still think we are very capable of turning this thing positive.".</p>
— Josh Kendall (@JoshatTheState) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshatTheState/status/646356008781135872">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spurrier: Still capable of turning it around. Although he admits the team is not very positive right now.</p>
— David Cloninger (@DCTheState) <a href="https://twitter.com/DCTheState/status/646355976686313472">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p>On the running backs:</p>
<p>With Brandon Wilds banged up with a bruised set of ribs, it looks like <span>Shon Carson</span> will get the nod to start this week. Spurrier said the coaches haven't given up on <span>David Williams</span>, and hope he can break through this week.</p>
<p>At least someone's still optimistic:</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Matulis: "It could end up being 11-2. That's still a possibility."</p>
— David Cloninger (@DCTheState) <a href="https://twitter.com/DCTheState/status/646359451100954625">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p>You can catch Spurrier's full press conference, along with the session with Lorenzo Nunez and <span>Mike Matulis</span> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.gamecocksonline.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/092215aag.html">here.</a></p>
https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/2015/9/22/9375031/steve-spurrier-tuesday-press-conferenceJames Shahid2015-09-22T12:31:56-04:002015-09-22T12:31:56-04:00Nunez to start at QB against UCF on Saturday
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<figcaption>Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The quarterback merry-go-round continues.</p> <p>When the 2015 football season started three weeks ago (already!), no one could have foreseen <a href="https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">South Carolina Gamecocks</a> quarterback <span>Connor Mitch</span> get injured and end up being shelved for a good chunk of the season, or <span>Perry Orth</span> starting in his place against Georgia, or Lorenzo Nunez starting in <i>his</i> place against Central Florida in Week Four.</p>
<p>Yet, that's the situation we have right now. Steve Spurrier, in his UCF week press conference today, made the announcement official as he is looking for a spark to boost his struggling team: the true freshman from Georgia will get the call under center against the Knights on Saturday.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Unless my research missed someone, Lorenzo Nunez will be the first true freshman to start at QB for South Carolina since Steve Taneyhill.</p>
— Rixon Lane (@RixonLane) <a href="https://twitter.com/RixonLane/status/646360386837573632">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"Lorenzo gives us a spark that we need in there," Spurrier says. He thinks it is the first true freshman QB he has ever started.</p>
— GamecockCentral.com (@GamecockCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/GamecockCentral/status/646353814480625664">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p>It's somewhat surprising (but not really) since Orth was listed on the depth chart as starting his second straight game. But Nunez, in limited appearances, has looked pretty good. In mop-up duty during a 52-20 loss to the Bulldogs a few days ago, he was 4-5 for 18 yards passing and ran the ball ten times for 76 yards and a touchdown. Last week, against Kentucky, he didn't attempt a pass, but broke off a nice 33-yard run just before halftime. Although Nunez is getting the start, Spurrier said that his two other healthy QBs should see time, too.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spurrier says Perry Orth will also play, and Michael Scarnecchia could also play.</p>
— GamecockCentral.com (@GamecockCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/GamecockCentral/status/646354714947420160">September 22, 2015</a>
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<p>So the quarterback merry-go-round continues to turn for the Gamecocks. Will they strike gold with the first-year player? Time will tell, but if they do, that will have a impact on how things play out at the quarterback position this year and for the next several years.</p>
<p>The Gamecocks and Knights play Saturday at Williams-Brice Stadium as Carolina looks to snap a two-game losing streak. Kickoff is set for noon and will be broadcast on ESPNU.</p>
https://www.garnetandblackattack.com/south-carolina-gamecocks-football/2015/9/22/9372313/lorenzo-nunez-south-carolina-gamecocks-quarterback-starter-central-florida-knights-ucfSydney Hunte